As May marks Mental Health Awareness Month, Washington state’s Native and Strong Lifeline is reminding Indigenous communities that free mental health support is available around the clock. The lifeline, launched in 2022, is a suicide and crisis service specifically designed for American Indian and Alaska Native people in Washington state.
Access and Service Model
The Native and Strong Lifeline operates 24 hours a day and can be reached by calling 988 and pressing 4, texting N8V to 988, or accessing the service online. The service is distinguished by its inclusive approach to crisis: it responds to callers’ definitions of crisis, whether someone is experiencing severe situations or simply needs someone to talk to for support getting through the day. The lifeline averages about 1,500 interactions a month through chats and phone calls.
Indigenous-Led and Staffed
Washington’s Native and Strong Lifeline holds the distinction of being the first 24/7 crisis line in the United States designed for and staffed by Indigenous people. Jeremy Rouse, tribal services program manager for Volunteers of America Western Washington, which runs the lifeline, explained that this model matters because of historical trauma and prevention of Indigenous self-care. “We’re the best equipped to take care of each other and support each other,” Rouse said, noting that shared lived experiences and cultural aspects help crisis counselors connect meaningfully with callers.
Connected Support
Callers can also be referred to the Native Resource Hub, which provides support with housing, food, and other basic needs, creating a comprehensive pathway to help beyond crisis intervention.
This article is an AI-assisted summary. All facts and figures are drawn from the original report: https://kiowacountypress.net/content/mental-health-month-washingtons-native-lifeline-stands-ready-help